How Did Deepika Padukone [Bollywood Actress] Overcome Depression?

Through my journey to recovery, as I began to understand the stigma and lack of awareness associated with mental illness, I felt a deep need to save at least one life. - Deepika Padukone

Introduction 

Mental health discussions have assumed a gigantic wave of importance in recent years, especially in the public eye. 

The role played by celebrities and other famous figures in ensuring that mental issues are destigmatized is huge. Deepika Padukone happens to be the most celebrated actress from Bollywood. 

Her struggle with depression and her bravery in talking about it brought to light not only the issue of mental health but also inspired millions to reach out for help and open up about their struggles. 

Here, we delve into the case of Deepika Padukone's battle with depression, what it did to her life on both personal and professional fronts, and how her story is a living inspiration to many.

Deepika Padukone's Background

One of the highest-paid actresses in the film industry known as Bollywood. Deepika has enjoyed a professional film career of over a decade. 

She has been cast in super-hit films such as "Chennai Express," "Padmavat," "Bajirao Mastani," and many others including one of her best films, "Chhapaak" Deepika has brought out performances that have made heads roll, having won many awards, including three prestigious Filmfare Awards.

She is an actress and global icon representing the Indian film industry on various international platforms.

Deepika is a confident, successful, and independent woman whose influence reaches beyond the film industry, as she is also known for her philanthropic work, particularly in the field of mental health. 

However, beneath her strong and successful exterior was the personal struggle of overcoming depression - a battle that Deepika courageously chose to share with the world.

Understanding Depression

Depression is a very common mental disorder described by the presence of low mood, loss of interest/desire to engage in pleasurable events like socializing, and lack of energy. 

The condition affects millions of people around the world and seems to have been related to certain variables, which are in turn related to the severity. Among common manifestations of depression are:

1. Low mood or persistent sadness
2. A loss of interest or a loss of pleasure in activities that had been sources of satisfaction
3. Changes in appetite or weight
4. Sleep disturbances or oversleeping
5. Fatigue or lack of energy
6. Feeling of worthlessness, or excessive, inappropriate guilt
7. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
8. Thoughts of self-harm, death or suicide.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression affects more than 264 million people globally, constituting one of the major causes of disability in the world.

What Caused Depression in Deepika Padukone?

The start of depression for Deepika Padukone was quite unexpected. 

At first, it was not easy to identify the cause. Deepika Padukone had everything one may wish for by the age of 18 or 19, even great professional success. 

Each morning, she woke up and experienced emptiness and despair within her. 

Deepika has stated in various interviews that “she got into depression due to the combination of very long work hours, personal setbacks, and the immense pressure of living up to expectations placed upon her. 

The inner battle, with the added external pressures of her career, had pushed her into dark times where functioning normally became tough.”

Deepika Padukone's Mental Health Struggle

Mental Health and How It Affects the Life of Deepika Padukone

Depression dealt a big blow to Deepika’s life, affecting her professional and personal life.

Professionally, Deepika was finding it hard to live up to her normal standards. 

She had lost interest in her work, and feelings of sorrow and hopelessness were mounting. 

She was hardly able to take up roles because loneliness had surrounded her, disconnecting her from the rest of the world.

Personally, Deepika's relationships had come under strain as she was unable to express what she was experiencing hence, she was misconceived and felt alone. 

The depression also involved her physical health which contributed to the lack of energy and motivation to go about her daily activities. 

It was only when her mental and physical health had taken such a heavy toll that eventually, she realized the need to seek professional help from psychiatrist.

Deepika Padukone's Battling with Depression for Mental Health

Deepika's fight with depression was not a matter of fighting the symptoms alone but also the stigma that came along with mental health in  Indian society. 

Initially, it was tough for her to admit to her situation as there were no free discussions of mental health issues in any social or professional circles where she belonged. 

Fear of being judged or misunderstood scared her away from talking about it sooner.

However, with her situation worsening, Deepika was able to seek help from a psychologist. 

She was diagnosed with depression and immediately placed on counselling and medication.

These situations of depression can worsen because one is forced to face their worst fears and insecurities. 

The therapy sessions helped her delve into the depth of reasons why she was depressed and came to know how to regulate these feelings.

Deepika Padukone's Depression – When She Spoke Out About Depression

Valuable information about Deepika Padukone's mental health issue was first publicly revealed.

Deepika Padukone became one of the very few leading ladies to break her silence over suffering from depression in an interview with NDTV in 2015. 

This is an example of one of the very few times a leading lady associated with Bollywood had spoken publicly about her mental health issues.

In the interview, Deepika described the symptoms she experienced, how difficult it is to cope with depression, and the importance of seeking help.

Deepika Padukone talked about depression because she believed she could help others experiencing similar issues. 

Deepika believed she could chip in the fight against mental health in society whereby she would flawlessly remind people not to feel shame when seeking treatment for any type of mental health disorder. 

The feedback from the public was tremendous, and some people hailed her act as one of bravery and honesty. 

Deepika's act sparked a national debate on mental health and how the problem should be discussed openly.

Journey to Recovery: How Did Deepika Padukone Overcome Depression?

Her recovery was long and painful with Deepika Padukone's struggle against depression being a balancing course of therapy, medication, and lifestyle choices. She worked with her team of mental health professionals to tailor a treatment plan for herself.

1. Therapy and Medication

Therapy and medication were an integral part of Deepika's recovery. 

She would attend regular sessions with her therapist, where she learned to live with the symptoms and unearth the root cause of her depression. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which is a common psychotherapy technique can help reframe negative thoughts and learn more adaptive behaviors.

2. Lifestyle Changes

Making lifestyle changes can help tackle mental health issues. These included regular exercise since physical exercise helps boost good mood and mental health. 

Moreover, focusing on a balanced diet and getting enough sleep are equally important for overall health. 

A mental health patient can also begin practising mindfulness activities, along with meditation and yoga. Those activities grounded can reduce the amount of stress. 

3. The Live Love Laugh Foundation

In 2015, Deepika founded The Live Love Laugh Foundation, a non-profit working toward awareness and support for Mental Health. It works on public awareness campaigns, educational programs, and reaching out to people in search of help. 

Deepika Padukone has been greatly assisted in her recovery by the Live Love Laugh Foundation, which provided her with a sense of purpose and an ability to transform a personally negative experience into a more positive one. 

Deepika continues to talk about spreading more awareness and reducing the stigma of mental illness through the foundation in order to encourage other people to come forward while speaking about it.

Support System of Deepika Padukone in Fighting Depressionalready-coming

1. Family and Friends

Deepika was an exception as she had a very strong support system that helped her overcome depression. Her family, especially her mother, played a vital role in understanding the symptoms and forcing her to see a doctor. 

Deepika has been often quoted as saying that “Her mother was a true pillar of support during her lean, dark days”. Deepika had only a few best friends besides her family with whom she received emotional support and understanding of her situation. 

These relationships with her friends were vital to Deepika feeling less isolated and more connected with others.

2. Professional Help

It was a turning point in Deepika's battle with depression when she decided to seek professional help. The medical and psychological intervention by her psychiatrist and therapist helped in manage her symptoms and work on recovery. 

Deepika's openness about relying on professional support has made the idea of getting help for mental health issues less stigmatized.

Deepika Padukone's Inspiring Story: Impact on Mental Health Awareness

Deepika Padukone coming out to share her struggle with depression, has marked a great difference in raising awareness of mental health in the country.

Her story has encouraged most individuals to speak about what they are undergoing thus, beginning to be able to discuss and engage in conversations to break the silence and stigma around mental health issues.

Changes and initiatives arising from Her story

This disclosure by Deepika has made mental health a common subject in India hence, an increase in the number of mental health campaigns. 

The talks have become mainstream, and most people understand the importance of taking up the issue and its treatment. 

The concept has reached academia, workspaces, and media more forcefully in the area of mental health, thereby bringing resources and support to many more. 

Through its manifold initiatives, the Live Laugh Love Foundation NGO by Deepika Padukone has touched the lives of thousands, giving them the information and tools needed to take care of their mental health.

Powerful Quotes and Interviews of Deepika Padukone on Mental Health

Deepika Padukone has expressed a lot of profound feelings about her journey with depression, which she has continued to share with her audience. Some of the most impactful quotes are as follows: 

1. "Depression is not something you can 'snap out of.' It's like any other illness, and it needs to be treated."
2. "Mental health is not a destination but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you're going."
3. "It wasn't easy, but it was necessary. I was not afraid to tell the world that I wanted to let others know they are not alone."

The above quotes and public statements have done a great service in altering the narrative of mental health towards something that could be topics of newer talks-word therapies discussed out in the classes without any obligations.

Deepika Padukone's Personal Growth post-Mental Health Treatment

Deepika Padukone's experience with depression has made her stronger individually. She has grown in self-awareness, become resolute, and more empathetic, hence able to give far much richer performances on screen. 

This journey has also instilled a greater sense of purpose in her. Deepika continues to raise awareness about mental health through The Live Love Laugh Foundation and is reaching out to help those grappling with the condition. 

Her experience taught her the lesson of self-care and that help should be sought immediately whenever necessary.

Conclusion

Deepika Padukone's battle against depression and her taking a step forward to start the conversation on mental health have built a good platform. 

Her brave gesture of sharing her story motivated many others to come forward, which further accelerated the already-coming cultural change towards tackling mental illnesses. 

The journey of Deepika reminds us that mental health is as important as physical health and it is perfectly okay to help oneself and talk about our struggles openly.

With mental health being slowly recognized as an equally important part of one's well-being, Deepika Padukone's case is going to remain an enriching example of staying resilient, showing courage, and the need to break the stigma attached to problems of the mind.

Citation

1. Facilitators and barriers in the development and implementation of depression prevention and treatment policies in China: a qualitative study
2. It was the most painful thing...': Deepika Padukone recounts depression diagnosis, reflects on fame
3. Deepika Padukone: I had to take medication for depression
4. Deepika Padukone’s Story | Interview | NDTV
5. 'I Felt Empty And Directionless', Says Deepika Padukone on Her Battle With Depression: Full Transcript
6. Having been diagnosed with depression in 2014, #DeepikaPadukone